Charlyn Corral makes history as first Mexican to win Ballon d'Or award

Mexican striker Charlyn Corral made history on October 26, 2026, by winning the Gerd Müller Trophy for Best Forward of the Year at the Ballon d'Or ceremony in London, becoming the first Mexican footballer—male or female—to receive an award at the prestigious gala Source: Excélsior, Milenio, LA Times. The 35-year-old Pachuca captain shared the stage with Harry Kane, who won the men's equivalent Source: Infobae, El País.

Historic night for Mexican football

Corral's award was the highlight of a landmark evening for Mexico. Scarlett Camberos (Club América) finished 21st in the women's Ballon d'Or rankings, while Julián Quiñones placed 28th in the men's category—the best-ever position for a Mexican player Source: El País, Infobae. América Femenil was also nominated for Best Women's Club Source: Infobae.

Record-breaking season

Corral's recognition was backed by extraordinary numbers. Reports vary slightly on her exact tally: Excélsior cites 49 goals in 49 matches across club and country, while Infobae reports 36 league goals for Pachuca and the LA Times notes 43 goals and 11 assists in 46 appearances Source: Excélsior, Infobae, LA Times. All sources agree she was the world's top female scorer for the second consecutive year, having also been named the IFFHS's top global scorer in January 2026 Source: Excélsior.

Emotional acceptance

In her acceptance speech, Corral highlighted the growth of women's football in Mexico and acknowledged her compatriot Scarlett Camberos. "I am very happy to be here, to be the first Mexican to receive this recognition. It fills me with pride because I know that in my country they are doing things very well in women's football," she said Source: Infobae, El País. She also thanked Pachuca, her teammates, and her family, stating, "After 20 years of career, today I realize that work, discipline, and effort have been worth it" Source: Milenio.